Tough Talent

Posted at 12:40 pm on 7th June, 2017

Our very talented year 9 student Angel Tough has again shown her exceptional show jumping prowess by competing for her country, in Belgium.

Angel has been riding from an early age, at her family run riding school. With both her parents competing in show jumping it was a natural progression from attending local pony clubs and show jumping events; to begin competing herself. It didn’t take long before the local and regional competitions we on every weekend and the family have plenty of trophy sashes and rugs, mounted in frames around the home, as proof of her continued success.

This commitment to her chosen sport means Angel spends a minimum of 3 to 4 hours after school including riding; grooming and cleaning tack and now also competes 3-4 times per week. This dedication has led to her membership of the British Showjumping Academy and entrance into international competition where she has won various prizes in under 16’s competitions and achieved third place in an under 23’s competition at Addington Manor.

She has competed at the Echo Arena Liverpool International Horse Show for the last two years and won two of her classes. An article from britishshowjumping.co.uk said ‘Tough has already shown her winning quality becoming the first rider at the inaugural Liverpool international event to claim a double victory.’

Angel has been chosen to compete on behalf of the British team throughout the year but her attendance at the most recent meet in Oplgableek, Belgium was cemented at the Wales and West Show. She competed against adult professional and was placed 3rd on the podium.

Angel commented:

‘I have been around horses my whole life. I really love looking after them, exercising them and particularly show jumping with them. Show jumping is a great adrenalin rush; it’s the best feeling when I’m competing; aiming for a clear round with the time ticking down.

I am lucky to be involved with the team GB, at such a young age and am really looking forward to competing again in Holland and Slovakia later this summer.

My ambition is to go all the way and compete for my country at the Olympic Games. Riders need to be 18 years old before they can compete in an Olympic Games; meaning I’m aiming for 2024 selection, as I am only 17 be the time the next Olympics comes around.’